Why Study Elementary Education at PNW?
Elementary Education at PNW is an experiential program that prepares you for licensure in grades K-6. You will be immersed in field experiences with our partner school districts, allowing you to work with varying age levels and build a network across Northwest Indiana. You will also gain valuable experience using best practices teaching children with diverse needs.
Featured Faculty
Dr. David Pratt
Associate Professor of Education
dmpratt@pnw.edu
Dr. David Pratt is the 2017 recipient of the PNW Outstanding Faculty Award for Teaching. Dr. Pratt is an elementary and secondary education professor who is engaged in local schools. He has extensive research in the area of the use of technology to support preservice and inservice teachers. He has many presentations and publications in the areas of technology and math education. He serves a an evaluator on several grants. Dr. Pratt has also served as the President of Junior Achievement of LaPorte County.
School of Education
and Counseling ➤
The Honors College ➤
Career Paths
- Elementary Teacher (K-6)
- School Counselor (requires Master’s)
- Principal (requires Master’s)
Accreditations
- NCATE accredited
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Alumni Profile
Ever since her 4th grade instructor, Joe Burger, at Hobart’s Liberty Elementary School referred to her as “Rainbow Maker”, Caylee Stahl has looked forward to becoming an elementary teacher. As for her decision to attend PNW, it was pretty much a no-brainer. “My mom and sister are graduates, and I wanted to stay close to home,” Caylee said. “Plus, I knew the teacher education program is strong.” She now teaches 5th grade in her hometown of Hobart.
Where do our alums work?
- School City of Hobart
- Chicago Public Schools
- Valparaiso Community Schools
- School City of Hammond
- Merrillville Community School Corporation
- La Porte Community School Corporation
- Portage Township Schools
- Lake Central School Corporation
- Michigan City Area Schools
- Griffith Public Schools
Admissions Requirements
- Applicants to the Early Education program must have:
- A 2.5 GPA and 2.8 Professional GPA
- Required to pass the CASA assessments (or
meet an approved alternative) measuring
proficiency in basic academic skills.
Scholarships
Elementary Education students have scholarship opportunities through Financial Aid and the School of Education and Counseling. Find scholarship details here.
Additionally, candidates may apply through various professional organizations for scholarships (e.g., Indiana State Teachers Association, Phi Delta Kappa, etc.) or grants (e.g., USAGrantApplications.org).
Get Involved
Students may also be invited to join Kappa Delta Pi (KDP), International Honor Society in Education.
Milestone Courses
- Multiculturalism and Education
- Educational Technology
- Methods coursework in Elementary subject areas
